Have you ever dealt with a leaky pipe? It’s not a fun experience. If you only knew the type of pipe you were dealing with beforehand, you could’ve possibly prevented the leak. Or maybe you’ve never dealt with a leak, and you don’t plan to. Stay informed for your home’s protection. Learn how long different types of pipes last.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized steel pipes are pipes dipped in a zinc coating. This practice helps prevent lead poising in homes. Galvanizing was the easiest solution to correct about 70-plus years of municipal lead piping.
The design also prevents corrosion and rust from forming on the steel metal. Unfortunately, the practice is not foolproof. After decades of wear and tear, the zinc coating will diminish and corrosion will set in. Rust often goes unseen because it’s on the inside.
Galvanized pipes last anywhere between 20 and 50 years. But during that time, you need to have an expert look at them to see if they have developed any issues.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes are incredibly durable. The material can handle pressures of up to 1,000 psi. Even with that high rating, the material is incredibly lightweight and easy to install. Manufacturers also discovered copper was more resistant to corrosion than steel pipes.
Copper doesn’t rust, and under the right conditions, it stays shiny and clean for decades. The life expectancy is about 50-plus years. If your home was built in the mid-90s, things should be in pretty good shape. But keep a close eye on complications to be safe.
Copper pipes are also bacteria-resistant, and when dry, copper can kill influenza viruses and prevent fungal spores from spreading. But keep in mind copper pipes are sensitive to certain types of water and water pressure, so thoroughly inspect your copper pipe parts for any issues.
Brass Pipes
Brass pipes last longer than any other type of pipe. Their life span runs between 40 and 70 years. Brass pipes are very strong and durable metals resistant to corrosion. Plus, they are less likely to develop leaks over time. They’re easy to install and have a good seal.
Their seal is what prevents leaks from happening. These pipes are cost-effective, so they will save your home money in the long run. There are seven components required for brass pipe fittings:
- Coupling: connects two pipes
- Nipple: the stub of a pipe
- Tee: delivers a steady flow of liquid
- Reducer: connects two pipes with dissimilar widths
- Elbow: changes the direction of the pipe by 45 or 90 degrees
- Cross: has a cross shape with four branches in opposite directions
- Union: disconnects pipes
Run through these components when attempting to inspect your pipes.
At Craft Supply Corp, we have the supplies and information you need to know about different types of pipes and how long they last. Visit our website to learn more.
Craft Supply is a diverse wholesale distributor of hardware and fitting systems, plumbing supplies, heating supplies, valves and fittings, waterworks and drainage, faucets and fixtures, tools and other equipment as well as many other specialty products within the industry.